CHARGERS NOTES: Improving Brown eyes another start

SAN DIEGO – Vincent Brown's progress has been steady, yet slower
than he would've liked. A hamstring injury stole vital reps during
training camp and prevented him from learning the Chargers'
offense.

The San Diego State alum has steadily progressed since regaining
his health, and his performance Sunday against Green Bay was
something of a breakthrough. Brown caught four passes for 79 yards
in the 45-38 loss to the Packers. He gained an average of 7.3 yards
after the catch, providing a nice complement to Pro Bowlers Vincent
Jackson and Antonio Gates.

"Putting it all together makes you feel so good," Brown said
after Tuesday's practice. "It's such a sense of accomplishment,
because so much work goes into the preparation and study. Getting
it right in a game setting really makes you feel like you're making
progress."

Brown figures to get his second straight start Thursday against
Oakland with wide receiver Malcom Floyd expected to miss his second
straight game with a hip injury.

"It's been a process to get him caught up," Turner said. "He has
a much better understanding of what we're doing and he's shown an
ability to separate from defenders and make plays in a game
setting."

Cason's unshakable confidence

Antoine Cason has reclaimed his starting spot at right
cornerback after backing up rookie Marcus Gilchrist the last two
games.

It was the second time Cason lost his spot with the Chargers'
first team during his four-year career. Steve Gregory replaced him
at nickel back during the 2009 season. Neither time, Cason said,
caused the former first-round draft pick to lose confidence.

"My confidence level never took a hit. It never, ever does,"
said Cason, who was demoted after allowing three touchdown passes
to New York Jets receiver Plaxico Burress on Oct. 23. "I believe in
myself no matter what happens. Things happen, and they aren't
always good, but I signed up to play cornerback and I believe I can
do so at the highest level."

Floyd likely out

Floyd (hip) missed practice, and his chances of playing Thursday
are slim. He's one of three starters expected to miss the Oakland
game, joining guard Kris Dielman (concussion) and outside
linebacker Shaun Phillips (foot). Running back Ryan Mathews (groin)
was a full participant after missing Sunday's game, and linebackers
Takeo Spikes (biceps bruise), Antwan Barnes (calf) and Na'il Diggs
(knee) were limited.

Arrive early

The Chargers suggests that fans arrive early to Thursday's game
to avoid the gridlock associated with a weekday kickoff during rush
hour. Fans taking the trolley are advised to board around 2 p.m. to
avoid long delays.